Feature Friday: Andibelle Cosplay
This weekend is SC Comicon, so of course, this week’s feature is a South Carolina cosplayer. I met Andi a few years ago, and I’m so happy that she has been a part of my life. She is one of the sweetest cosplayers and people that I have had the opportunity to know since starting this hobby, and I love her twists on classic characters. Keep reading to find out more about her.
What is your cosplay name? Andibelle Cosplay
How did you come about your cosplay name? I’ve been going by Andibelle in MMORPG games for 8 years.
What is your real world name? Just plain Andi!
What do you do when you aren’t cosplaying? I’m a full time stay at home mom. I’m a foster mom, so it is very demanding with my time. However I’m able to use my cosplay skills and make great costumes!
How old are you? I’m 32
How long have you been cosplaying? I started very late, when I was 29.
What made you want to start cosplaying? I was always interested in cosplay, but I had no idea where to start. I didn’t know how to sew, and I used to think the only conventions were SDCC and DragonCon. I didn’t even know about all the other wonderful cons happening closer to me! I finally went to SC Comicon it’s first year and I was amazed to see people of all skill levels in cosplay. I made my first cosplay a few months later.
Why do you continue to cosplay? At my age and being a stay at home mom, I don’t have many opportunities to meet people with my interests. Cosplay gives me a way to meet people.
What is your dream cosplay? Ōtsutsuki Kaguya from Naruto. The first time I saw her my jaw dropped.
How do you choose who you will cosplay? My inspiration comes from all over the place. I’ve made plans because I found a wig in a thrift store for $9. Other times it is just picking a character I really love.
You do a lot of 1950’s inspired character designs. Tell us why you tend to favor that era/design? It started as a suggestion from my husband! I knew I wanted to be Sailor Moon, but it was my first cosplay and I did not have the skills for the traditional fuku. He made the suggestion of doing a poodle skirt. I just continued doing it because the silhouette is flattering on my body and circle skirts are fun to make.
What is your favorite cosplay you have done so far? Why? Kiki from Kiki’s Delivery Service. Studio Ghibli movies are my favorite movies. I started off with a closet Kiki where I had a $12 dress from Ross. Then the cosplay just continued to evolve to where I had made everything. I put so much love and care into everything. She’s such a simple character, but I love her.
What is your favorite convention? Why? Nashicon in Columbia is my favorite. I have moderate anxiety so huge cons like Dragon Con seem overwhelming. Nashicon is the perfect size where there is plenty to do, but it’s not overwhelming.
What cosplayer do you take the most inspiration from? Skill wise it is definitely Garnet Runestar. She is able to make impressive ball gowns very quickly. I also admire Misa on Wheels as someone who embodies the spirit of cosplay. Her positive messages can help turn my day around.
What are your upcoming cosplans? I’m doing another 1950’s cosplay! This time it will be Madoka! I also still want to do Sheeta from Castle in the Sky.
Do you think there will ever be a time when you choose to stop cosplaying? I doubt it. I will be cosplaying Yubaba from Spirited Away in my 60’s most likely.
What’s the hardest thing about cosplay for you? Deadlines. I’m a huge procrastinator. I really should plan new cosplays a year out.
What is the best advice you have for other cosplayers? Find your friends. They are going to be there to encourage you when you want to cry because you sewed a sleeve on backwards and then inside out and you never want to touch a seam ripper again.
Anything else you want to add? There’s too much negativity hanging around cosplayers; try to be the positive one and lift other people up.
Check out Andi’s social media, and give her a follow! Also, if you’re in the SC Upstate area, come say hi to both of us this weekend at SC Comicon. Leave a comment before you go, and don’t forget to subscribe via email or Bloglovin’ to never miss a post!
Andibelle’s Social Media
Instagram: @andibelle1221
Facebook: Andibelle Cosplay